Thermal mass assessment [electronic resource] : an explanation of the mechanisms by which building mass influences heating and cooling energy requirements

Published: Oak Ridge, Tenn. : Oak Ridge National Laboratory, 1983.
Oak Ridge, Tenn. : Distributed by the Office of Scientific and Technical Information, U.S. Dept. of Energy
Physical Description: Pages: 88 : digital, PDF file
Additional Creators: Oak Ridge National Laboratory and United States. Department of Energy. Office of Scientific and Technical Information

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Summary

The influence that building mass has on energy consumption for heating and cooling has been the subject of some controversy. This controversy is, in part, due to a lack of understanding of the heat transfer mechanics occurring within a building and of how they affect energy usage. This report offers a step-by-step development of the principles of heat transfer in buildings as they pertain to thermal mass. The report is targeted for persons who are unfamiliar with the topic of thermal mass, but who possess some technical background. It is concluded that for the mass of a building to reduce energy usage, the building must undergo alternating periods of net energy gain and loss. In other words, during the heating season the indoor temperature must at times float above the thermostat set point temperature to reduce energy consumption. During the cooling season, the indoor temperature must occasionally drop below the set point temperature. Other issues addressed include the effects of mass on peak loads, equipment cycling, thermostat setback, and comfort. Strategies to maximize benefits of mass are discussed.

Report Numbers

E 1.99:ornl/con-97
ornl/con-97

Subject(s)

Note

Published through SciTech Connect.
09/01/1983.
"ornl/con-97"
"DE84000654"
Childs, K.W.; Courville, G.E.; Bales, E.L.

Funding Information

W-7405-ENG-26

View MARC record | catkey: 23763036